Best mother-daughter relationship movies to enjoy
Mother-daughter relationship movies are a popular genre in film that delves into the unique and complex bond between a mother and her daughter(s).
These movies can take many forms. From lighthearted comedies to intense dramas, they all focus on exploring the nuances of this important relationship. The generation gap between moms and their offspring is a common theme in these films.
Mothers and daughters may find it difficult to relate to one another since they grew up in different eras. They were also subject to various cultural standards and expectations. This may cause friction and fights but may also lead to better communication and mutual understanding.
The effects of past traumas on present relationships is another common theme in mother-daughter relationship movies. The past can impact their connection due to a shared experience of loss or a history of poor encounters.
Movies like these explore the emotions of mother-daughter relationships. They demonstrate the transformative power of reconciliation and forgiveness in mending old wounds.
What are the best mother-daughter relationship movies you should watch?
There have been many great mother-daughter relationship movies throughout the years, so narrowing the list to just a few can be challenging.
However, here are some of the most beloved and influential films in this genre:
Little Women (2019)
- Genre: Romance/Drama
- Director: Greta Gerwig
- Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh
This recent adaptation of the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott features an all-star cast. It explores the relationships between four sisters and their mother during the Civil War era.
Watching the resilient March sisters, taught to be tough and kind from an early age, make their way through life is tragic and inspiring.
Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
- Genre: Drama
- Writers: Amy Sherman-Palladino, Daniel Palladino
- Cast: Alexis Bledel, Lauren Graham
While not a movie, this beloved television series about a mother and daughter living in a quirky New England town is a touchstone for many fans of the mother-daughter relationship genre.
One of our favorite things about Gilmore Girls is that it’s a show about women. As we follow the lives of these two women, we are also continuously reminded of the strength and success of women throughout history.
Steel Magnolias (1989)
- Genre: Drama/Comedy Drama
- Director: Herbert Ross
- Cast: Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton
Featuring an all-star cast that includes Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Julia Roberts, this film explores the complex relationships between a group of Southern women, including a mother and her daughter.
You’ll be laughing out loud with tears streaming down your cheeks one minute and bawling your eyes out the next.
The Parent Trap (1998)
- Genre: Family/Comedy
- Director: Nancy Meyers
- Cast: Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid, Natasha Richardson
The Parent Trap is an excellent movie for mothers and daughters as it celebrates the power of family and the enduring bond between siblings.
It also emphasizes the importance of open communication and understanding in building healthy relationships. In addition, it offers a fun and heartwarming story that both mothers and daughters can enjoy together.
Lady Bird (2017)
- Genre: Drama/Comedy
- Director: Greta Gerwig
- Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, Laurie Metcalf
One of the strengths of Lady Bird is its nuanced and realistic portrayal of the mother-daughter relationship. The film depicts the push-pull interaction between mothers and daughters as they grow apart.
This moving and insightful movie speaks to the complexities and joys of the mother-daughter relationship. Also, it’s a terrific film for mothers and daughters to watch together to discuss family and love’s ability to get past any challenge.
Enola Holmes (2020)
- Genre: Mystery
- Director: Harry Bradbeer
- Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Helena Bonham Carter, Henry Cavill
The movie is about self-discovery, as Enola sets out to find her mother and ultimately discovers herself.
The themes of self-discovery and identity are universal, making the movie relatable to both mothers and daughters. It is also an excellent movie for moms and daughters as it has a strong female lead.
Freaky Friday (2003)
- Genre: Comedy/ Family
- Director: Mark Waters
- Cast: Lindsay Lohan, Jamie Lee Curtis, Chad Michael Murray
Freaky Friday is a story about a mother and daughter who swap bodies and have to live each other’s lives for a day. This role reversal provides a fun and engaging way to explore the mother-daughter relationship and the challenges that each faces in their daily lives.
While it is a comedy, it also has emotional depth and tackles serious issues such as divorce, single parenthood, and the challenges of growing up. The characters’ struggles and conflicts are relatable and allow families to discuss these issues.
Terms of Endearment (1983)
- Genre: Drama/Comedy
- Director: James L. Brooks
- Cast: Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, Jack Nicholson
Terms of Endearment is a good mom-daughter movie because it explores the complex relationship between mothers and daughters with depth, realism, and humor.
It deals with serious themes and provides a positive message about the enduring power of love between mothers and daughters.
My Sister’s Keeper (2009)
- Genre: Drama
- Director: Nick Cassavetes
- Cast: Abigail Breslin, Cameron Diaz, Sofia Vassilieva
My Sister’s Keeper explores the relationship between a mother and her daughter battling cancer. It deals with themes of sacrifice and family.
The mother is willing to do anything to save her daughter’s life while the daughter struggles with her illness’s impact on her family. These themes allow families to discuss family’s importance and the sacrifices we make for those we love.
Mommie Dearest (1981)
- Genre: Drama/Docudrama
- Director: Frank Perry
- Cast: Faye Dunaway, Diana Scarwid, Mara Hobel
Mommie Dearest is a movie that explores the complicated mother-daughter relationship and the pressures of fame and success.
It provides an opportunity for mothers and daughters to reflect on their own relationships. It also discusses the importance of healthy communication and boundaries and appreciates the strength and resilience of women.
However, it’s important to note that the film does contain scenes of emotional and psychological abuse, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.
Mermaids (1990)
- Genre: Drama/Comedy
- Director: Richard Benjamin
- Cast: Cher, Winona Ryder, Christina Ricci, Bob Hoskins
Mermaids is a comedy-drama film that tells the story of a single mother and her two daughters as they navigate life and relationships in the 1960s.
The mother-daughter relationships are at the heart of the film, and the characters experience ups and downs in their relationships throughout the story.
Mermaids is a film that portrays strong and independent women. This allows mothers and daughters to discuss the importance of self-worth and empowerment.
Watching mother-daughter relationship movies can provide good insights
Mother-daughter relationship movies can be great for bonding as they allow both mothers and daughters to reflect on their relationships. They also share their thoughts and experiences and learn from one another.
A movie can be a shared experience that brings mothers and daughters closer together. By sharing this experience, they can create memories and a common language to reference in the future.
Also, movies that explore mother-daughter relationships can promote empathy and understanding.
By watching characters navigate the complexities of their relationship, mothers and daughters can gain insight into each other’s perspectives and experiences. These can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of each other.
Lastly, they offer valuable lessons and insights into healthy communication, boundaries, forgiveness, and the importance of self-worth and empowerment.
